Society Hill Neighborhood Guide
By Todd Hovanec on April 20, 2020
You may not think you know Society Hill, but you’ll definitely recognize Society Hill if you ever studied the American revolution and our nation’s early roots in Philadelphia.
Society Hill is a historic neighborhood in the Center City area of Philadelphia. Dating back to the 18th century, the area derives its recognizable name from the Free Society of Traders (originally located on Front Street). Located close to the Delaware River and now famous civic sites, such as Independence Hall, Society Hill was one of the most populous during the early days of the American colonies.
Indeed, Society Hill is one of the most picturesque and historic neighborhoods not only in Philadelphia but in the United States. But just because it’s historic doesn’t mean it’s like living in a museum -- there are contemporary options too and wonderful services and amenities!
Where is Society Hill in Philadelphia?
Society Hill is nestled next to the Delaware river to its east, with Washington Square West to its west, Old City to the north, and Queen Village to the south. The neighborhood is roughly framed out with Walnut St. to the north, Lombard St. to the south, route I-95 to the east, and 8th St. to the west.
Architectural Appeal
Society Hill offers a quintessential colonial vibe set in modern times featuring cobblestone streets lined with brick rowhouses in a mix of both Federal and Georgian styles. Fun fact - the historic neighborhood contains one of the largest remaining clusters of original 18th and early 19th century architecture in the United States today.
One stand-out in the heart of Society Hill is the famous I.M. Pei-designed Society Hill Towers. Built in 1964, this brutalist masterpiece does stand out from the generally low-rise and historic vibe of Society Hill.
After all, there are three 31-story towers surrounded by mostly three- or four-story homes! They do remain a popular option for anyone looking for apartment-style living in an incredible location near all the best of Philly.
Browse homes for sale in Society Hill
Getting Around Society Hill
Most Philadelphia neighborhoods are evaluated by residents on the basis of their proximity to the Center City and their work. For Society Hill, you are already in the heart of the city.
SEPTA buses serve the area via the 21, 42, 47, and 57 routes. Parking is not always easy, but perhaps your search will include parking as a requirement. Finally, the Market-Frankford Line serves the northern part of Society Hill easily at 2nd, 5th Street and 8th Street station stops.
Drinking & Dining
American whiskies, live blues music (and other genres too) and delicious eats are three reasons to come to this charming bar and restaurant on Headhouse Square! On a nice summer evening, the sidewalk seating becomes prime real estate, so get there early to reserve your spot! You will enjoy your perch on this historic piece of Society Hill, Philadelphia, as you take a whiskey flight to new places.
Local tip: try the brussel sprouts, the ribs and the crabfish mac n’ cheese.
This intimate Italian restaurant offers Italian classics such as caesar salad (served table-side), lobster ravioli and a top notch pork chop cutlet. The deep wine list and dessert menus will round out any culinary experience with aplomb.
Looking for a special setting for a memorable evening? Try dining in Bistro Romano’s special wine cellar, which is part of a former network of underground tunnels. This romantic and unique ambiance will be both delicious and unforgettable … unless you drink too much wine!
Perennially ranked one of Philadelphia’s best restaurants, Zahav deserves all the accolades it receives. Reservations are difficult to come by so you’ll likely have to plan your visit weeks or even months in advance.
When you do finally eat at Zahav, you will be rewarded with savory Israeli dishes that are both traditional and modern takes on classics such as hummus with salatim, lamb merguez over carrot puree, and house-smoked sable over challah.
Best Cheesesteak near Society Hill
Sonny's Famous Steaks on Market and 2nd St. Popular as it is due to its location near Penn’s Landing, the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Betsy Ross House and all the terrific historical sites nearby, Sonny’s is a legit steak that locals will enjoy too.
Oh Brother Philly gets a runner-up nod just down the block.
Things to Do
Experience the history of the American Revolution…
Technically on the border of two neighborhoods, Independence Hall straddles both Society Hill and Old City to the north. Clearly, Independence Hall remains one of the most iconic buildings in America, if not the world, and is always fun to look at on a $100 bill.
The location is the site where the American Declaration of Independence and US Constitution were both debated and ultimately ratified. The two-dollar bill pays homage as well!
Visit famous places of worship…
Whether or not you are religious, Society Hill includes some well-known houses of worship to see during your next visit to the center city of Philadelphia. First, there is Society Hill Synagogue. Originally built in the 1800s to house an architect’s baptist congregation, this religious house was converted to a Jewish synagogue in 1910. Second, there is St. Peter’s Church which dates back to its construction between 1758 and 1761.
Check out the library stacks…
Society Hill is home to the Athenaeum of Philadelphia - a landmark that serves as a special collections library. The Athenaeum’s architecture is an impressive sight to see with its Italianate Revival style and the location hosts regular exhibitions and tours.
Market Snapshot
Society Hill remains one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Philadelphia. It is home to some of the most picturesque and charming blocks and streets in the city, if not the country!
Here are four homes for sale in Society Hill, Philadelphia that caught our eye:
Interested in buying a home in Society Hill? Browse listings and see how much you could save with Prevu’s Smart Buyer commission rebate in Philadelphia.
